Another Kaiapoi Landmark Commemorated

The former BNZ building in Kaiapoi – now housing John Rhind Funeral Directors – was given a “Landmarks” plaque this morning. Now owned by the M E Ayres Trust, the restored building is a credit to Pat Peoples and her son Paul Ayres.

The BNZ is the second building on the site and reflects the way 19th Century banks liked to present themselves to the public: solid and safe.

The Landmarks programmes in Kaiapoi and Rangiora are slowly but surely commemorating with plaques the notable historic buildings of the towns. It is my strong belief that increasing communities’ knowledge of the their histories helps make those communities stronger.

Kaiapoi has a notable built heritage and around the Charles Street – Williams Street corner provides a very good example. The former BNZ is a very important part of that precinct.

2 Responses to “Another Kaiapoi Landmark Commemorated”

I am told that the plaque above the door of the BNZ building was carved by my Grt Grandfather. Do you know anything about the history of this plaque and may be where I could find out more? Iam concerned that the building maybe demolished and the plaque gone for ever.

Hi John. Firstly, there has not been, as far as I know, any final decision about the building, although it is obviously in trouble. There has been a meeting at the end of this week, but I haven’t heard of any outcome from it. I am aware that you have been in contact with the Council through our website and that you should be able to get in contact through the owners. It sounds that you may actually know more about the history of the plaque than we do – so thanks for that bit of information! If you want to discuss the matter further, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me at the Council or at home – 03 313 6262. Regards David.